Heidelberg Test

If you suffer from gastrointestinal problems such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) or general fatigue and poor health, an imbalance in the pH of your stomach could contribute to your symptoms. At Los Angeles Integrative Gastroenterology & Nutrition in Century City, Farshid Sam Rahbar, MD, FACP, ABIHM, and his team offer the innovative Heidelberg pH test to measure your stomach acid. LA Integrative Gastroenterology & Nutrition is one of only a few facilities in the country that offer this informative diagnostic test. Call or schedule a consultation online today.

Heidelberg Test Q & A

Heidelberg pH testing is a procedure done to measure the amount of stomach acid a patient produces. The amount of stomach acid is important because it affects the patient’s ability to absorb and digest nutrients, and an inability to properly absorb and digest the necessary nutrients can lead to a number of adverse health effects.

How Does Heidelberg pH Testing Work?

The test begins with the patient swallowing a small capsule. Inside the capsule is a high-frequency transmitter. This transmitter shows your doctor the pH levels of the gastrointestinal tract. One significant advantage of the Heidelberg pH test is that it causes less discomfort for the patient than the traditional stomach tube, which can be difficult and painful to swallow.

At LA Integrative Gastroenterology & Nutrition, we attach a thin thread to the capsule. This gives us better control in positioning it in the stomach. After the measurements are taken, patients may allow the capsule to continue through the gut and be expelled in the stool, or they can choose to have the capsule removed through the mouth.

The time required for the test varies, yet most patients can expect it to take around 2 hours. Patients who are taking medications that reduce stomach acid may need to wait for a certain period of time to allow the effects of the medication to wear off before having the test.

Why Should You Get a Heidelberg pH Test?

The Heidelberg pH test is used to diagnose hypochlorhydria (reduced stomach acid output) or achlorhydria (lack of stomach acid). These conditions may be associated with gastrointestinal disorders such as:

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Why is it important to know my stomach acid levels?

A: Stomach acid is essential to digestion. Without the chemicals and compounds in it, foods such as meats, cheese, and fish become difficult or impossible to properly digest. This can lead to a number of problems, including malabsorption and abdominal pain.

Q: Is the Heidelberg pH test safe?

A: Yes, this test has been used around the world for many years and has been proven a safe and reliable way to gauge stomach acid levels.

Q: What will happen if I find out I have low stomach acid?

A: If you do have low stomach acid, our doctors will take steps to help you regain a more appropriate level. One of the most common treatments is the use of hydrochloride (HCL) with meals.

Q: Who should not have a Heidelberg pH test done?

A: Generally, the test is not recommended for young children or patients with a history of Crohn’s disease or bleeding of the intestines. Please consult with a physician familiar with Heidelberg testing for more details.

Q: Do I need a consultation prior to Heidelberg pH testing?

A: A consultation is highly recommended to better understand if Heidelberg testing is right for you, to rule out other associated pathology and to receive orientation for performing the test.

For more information, please send us an email at info@laintegrativegi.com so that we can provide you with a screening questionnaire, consent form, and fee schedule.